The borough’s chronic housing shortage means the council will find it difficult to house refugees fleeing war-torn countries.

That is the view of Epsom and Ewell Council who said it is in a ‘challenging position’ with regard to housing refugees who may come to the area seeking help.

Public support has grown dramatically since photographs emerged of a drowned three-year-old Syrian boy washed up on a Turkish beach on September 2.

More than 438,000 refugees applied for asylum in Europe between January and July this year, many of them fleeing from the conflict in Syria.

The photograph of three-year-old Syrian refugee Aylan Kurdi triggered an outpouring of support for the refugees.

In a statement published on its Facebook page, the council said: "The borough of Epsom and Ewell would be in a challenging position to accommodate refugees as there is a chronic housing shortage in the borough and we are currently facing difficulties releasing homes for those within the borough who find themselves homeless.

"Nevertheless, the council is ready to play its part in any nationally agreed and co-ordinated approach to refugees, and is awaiting the government’s advice and instructions."

It said the Government has stated refugees will come from camps bordering Syria rather than from among those already in Europe.

The council said it would expect the Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation scheme to be co-ordinated through its national body, the Local Government Association (LGA), as was the case some years ago with a national programme for asylum seekers.

It is in discussion with neighbouring councils and Surrey County Council about how it can help.

A spokesman said: "We are seeking further details from the LGA, whose staff are working with various bodies, to better understand what is needed in terms of support and the provision of public services so that an effective and co-ordinated response can be delivered."

Residents have come forward to offer space in their homes. The council said it will offer advice to people once it has more information from the Government and the LGA.

What do you think? Comment below or email letters@epsomguardian.co.uk.